Volvo F89 4X2S
Built: 1977 · Series: F89
More machines from model year 1977
Not the right version? The data comes from vehicle registers holding many near-identical versions side by side. Photograph the data plate — we read make and type from it. Open the scanner e-mail address required
Volvo F89 – 1970s forward-control truck: 12-litre turbocharged straight-six, 242 kW, axle configurations from 4x2 to 8x4, gross weight from 16 to 29.85 tonnes
The Volvo F89 is the forward-control (cab-over) truck with which Volvo positioned its heavy range above the F86 and F88 in the 1970s, recognisable by its square, box-shaped cab with no protruding bonnet. At Volvo, the letter F stands for forward control, as opposed to the bonneted N range; the number 89 marks the model generation. Suffixes such as 4X2, 6X2 and 8X4 denote axle configuration: the first digit gives the total number of wheels, the second the number driven. At the heart of the range sat a straight-six of around 12 litres with turbocharging, which suited the F89 to long-haul work and to heavy articulated and construction chassis.
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The register lists 7 versions with a straight-six of around 12.0 litres and an output of 242 kW. Unladen weight ranges from 6,440 to 14,605 kg, gross vehicle weight from 16,000 to 29,850 kg. Length runs from 5,800 to 9,750 mm and width from 2,340 to 2,550 mm.
In its day, the F89 competed directly with Scania, DAF, MAN and Mercedes-Benz in long-haul and construction traffic. The four-axle 8X4 version was used chiefly in construction and heavy haulage, while the 4X2 and 6X2 tractor units ran in classic articulated operation. The forward-control layout allowed tight turning circles and a short overall length at full load capacity.
When buying a used example, the frame and cab mounting are critical points: corrosion at the tilting cab hinge and along the chassis rails is the rule rather than the exception on vehicles of this age. The turbocharger and injection pump of the straight-six should be checked for durability, as should the air-assisted braking system. On 6X2 and 8X4 chassis, the trailing axle and its steering are worth a close look. Spare parts for the mechanical drivetrain are still available through specialist Volvo classic-truck dealers.
Sources: SpecCodex register, model data: Volvo F89, Volvo Trucks (manufacturer)
Technical data
Engine
| Cylinders | 6correct |
|---|
Dimensions and weights
| Length | 5,990 mmcorrect |
|---|---|
| Width | 2,500 mmcorrect |
| Wheelbase | 3,800 mmcorrect |
| Unladen weight | 7,200 kgcorrect |
| Gross vehicle weight | 16,000 kgcorrect |
Drivetrain and chassis
| Wheels | 4correct |
|---|
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Volvo F89 4X2S weigh?
The unladen weight is 7,200 kg.
What is the gross vehicle weight of the Volvo F89 4X2S?
16,000 kg.
What engine does the Volvo F89 4X2S have?
6 cylinders.
What are the dimensions of the Volvo F89 4X2S?
5,990 mm × 2,500 mm.
When was the Volvo F89 4X2S built?
Production years: 1977.
What to check before buying
- Check the hour meter against the service records — a replaced instrument is the most common gap.
- Compare the data plate and chassis number with the papers.
- Check the weights in the papers against the figures here — attachments change them.
- Ask about parts availability for this build year — the running costs hang on it.
A general list for this type of machine — no substitute for an inspection or an appraiser.
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This page carries 9 individual figures for this model. They come from 1 recorded source; every figure can be traced there. What we cannot document is not here — we leave gaps open rather than estimate them.
The technical data on this page comes from official vehicle registration records (RDW/Traficom), not from the manufacturer.
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Sources: RDW — Dutch national vehicle register (retrieved August 2026) · How we check the data
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